The Tower of Bujaco (Torre de Bujaco) is a steadfast reminder of the town’s ancient Moorish heritage. Constructed in the 1100s, the tower’s Arabic architecture has been beautifully integrated into the surrounding Romanesque streetscape. Find out about Cáceres’ intricate history when you visit this remarkable structure fronting the Plaza Mayor in the town’s historic centre.
Stroll around the wide cobbled square, which has provided the backdrop for local community events since the 12th century. You’ll see the tall Tower of Bujaco looming over the square with its crenellated battlements pointing to the sky. Run your hands over the ancient masonry. Look for the triple-arched portico of the tower’s adjoining building and the set of stairs that lead up into the tower’s fortified walls.
The old tower got its name from the military leader Caliph Abú-Ya’qub, who conquered Cáceres in 1173 after a bitter siege that lasted 6 months. The caliph led his troops to defeat the Knights of the Order, who used the tower as their defensive bastion. Wander up the stairs and look out across the Plaza Mayor. Between the 16th and 18th centuries locals called the building the Clock Tower, but the name Tower of Bujaco has since been returned.
Make you way inside the building to check out the Three Cultures Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the fascinating heritage of the tower and the different reigns it has witnessed throughout the centuries. Climb the stairs to the tower’s rooftop and check out sweeping views of the surrounding townscape. Spot historic landmarks amid the terracotta-tiled rooftops and charming whitewashed buildings.
The Tower of Bujaco is located on the northeastern side of the Plaza Mayor in the heart of Cáceres’ historic centre. View the tower’s façade from outside for free or explore its interiors for a small admission fee. Children enter for free. The visitor centre and rooftop lookout are open daily, except for short periods in the mid-afternoon. The tower is 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometres) from the city’s main railway station.
